Cindy's Featured Artist of the Week - Aleigha

ABOUT THE ARTIST -
ALEIGHA A. BUTLER

Aleigha A. Butler is a Georgia resident by way of SC. Part of Aleigha’s assignment is to inspire people.  As a result, she calls herself, The Purpose Midwife.  Her followers and listeners have nicknamed her “Ms. On Fire To Inspire”.  

Aleigha is a radio show host, author, motivator, philanthropist, networker, and consultant.  She educates the children and empowers the adult.  Her tool for the children is her book, A Learning Book Just For Me.  It is a bilingual sing-along book that teaches foundational English and Spanish.  It is available in paperback and e-book.  

The tools that she uses for the adults are through her online radio show (On Fire To Inspire), speaking engagements, and her books On Fire To Inspire and Prayers, Affirmations, and Declarations.  On Fire To Inspire is available in e-book, paperback, and audio cd. Prayers Affirmations and Declarations is available online via Amazon and Kindle.  “Everything that I do empowers, encourages, educates, and edifies people.  God gets the glory out of everything that I do.” shares Aleigha.  

You can listen to her radio show on Tuesdays at 8 pm EST at
929-477-2178 or www.blogtalkradio.com/onfiretoinspire.  She and her guests light or reignite the fire in you to pursue your purpose.

“It's time for you to stop existing and start living the life that God created you to live now!” exclaims Aleigha.  Too many people are simply existing and living beneath their ability.  Each and every person was given talents, gifts, and abilities. 

On Fire To Inspire 2 is coming out in 2017 - be on the lookout for it.

Aleigha Butler can be booked by emailing onfiretoinspire@gmail.com or calling 678-750-3233.

Follow Aleigha Butler on FB: www.facebook.com/AleighaButler or www.facebook.com/onfiretoinspirentwk

Instagram: @onfiretoinspire

Twitter/Periscope/Tumbler: @msonfire2nspire, @authoraleigha

Good Reads / Pinterest: Aleigha Butler

Amazon Author page is http://tinyurl.com/AmazonAleigha 

Cindy's Featured Artist of the Week - Rod

ABOUT THE ARTIST - 

ROD BALLARD

Rod is an author that is a native of South Carolina. Years ago he started writing stories and decided that in spite of coming from a place where it seemed few people dared to dream big, he would fulfill his dream to be a published author. In 2015 he hit the scene with his first published book titled - “The Confessions of a True Womanizer”.

 

He has put out another classic in May 2016 which is titled “Dirty C.O.” It’s about corruption and how things go down in the prison system. Right now this book is a fan favorite that’s available on Amazon.com.

 

Rod also loves to motivate and inspire others to do great in life. He has a YouTube channel that is totally dedicated to making videos for his followers and just people in general that need motivation and inspiration. To see his videos, go to YouTube.com and type in ‘Rod Ballard’ in the YouTube search bar.

 

Rod is committed to fitness and living a positive life.  It is his personal belief that the way you keep yourself up on the outside reflects who you are on the inside.  In his spare time, he enjoys reading, writing and listening to music of various styles but favors Smooth Jazz and R&B.  He also commits to motivational speaking and anything that has a positive role in his life and the lives of others.    

 

Connect with Rod on these following social networks.

 

Instagram: @rod_writer

YouTube: Rod Ballard

Facebook.com/rodwriter

Twitter: @rod_writer

God answers prayers by Cindy H. Reed

I'm a living witness that God answers prayers. I prayed yesterday morning for something to which I received on the same day!

Did I think I'd receive it in such high fashion? Nope. Did I ever consider my prayers would be answered that quickly and be so transparent? Nope, I wasn't expecting that.

I know that God answers prayers - I just wasn't expecting mine to be answered the same day I sent them up. What I'd asked of Him, I received 10 fold.

I'm still thanking Him today for answering my prayers! How blessed am I to be able to see the Fathers work so eloquently done. Still in awe today - I thanked Him any times. I received that blessing because I walk in His spirit. I received that blessing so that I could testify about it. I received that blessing because God said no weapon formed against me shall prosper.

All those who want to do me harm, either by word or way... I am covered in the blood of Jesus and you can throw stones all day, every day - His protective shield (the blood of the lamb) covers me and Satan will never prosper against what God has anointed to be.

Cindy*

Cindy's Featured Artist of the Week - Sha-Rhonda

ABOUT THE ARTIST - 

SHA-RONDA M. GREEN 

Dr. Green has many stories of overcoming adversity and choosing better over bitter. Dr. Green utilizes her personal testimonies and over 15 years of professional mental health therapy and social work experience to deliver transparent speeches and workshops geared toward the emotional health and wellness of busy women. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Certified School Social Worker (SSW).

Dr. Green is a 7-time Author who enjoys exercising and believes that fitness is a key component to self-care, self-love, balancing multiple roles and emotion management.

www.empowered1woman.com

Cindy's Featured Artist of the Week - Sistah's Place

ABOUT THE ARTIST -

LETRISE CARTER 

Letrise is the creator and founder of Sistah’s Place Entertainment Blog Showcase at www.sistahsplace.com. Sistah’s Place was launched in July 2014 to be the source for film, television, theater, and publishing that focus on the talented minority men and women following their dreams and inspiring others to step out on faith and believe in their dreams. Letrise realized the need to serve as a platform for indie talent in film, television, theater, and publishing. 

Over the last year, Sistah’s Place has broadened the showcase to feature entrepreneurs, indie music artist, and guest writers. Sistah’s Place allows indie and national artists to showcase their gifts, talents, and projects to give them exposure to new audiences across multiple platforms and countries. Sistah’s Place recently won the 2017 Black Excellence Award presented by Black Pearls Magazine.

Recently, Sistah’s Place launched Sistah’s Place Spotlight Feature which publishes monthly to promote author’s novels across multiple social platforms, media influencers, and subscriber lists. The purpose of this monthly feature is to create exposure about the author and their novel that will lead to potential new customers and reach bigger audiences with top influencers via Twitter, Facebook, and other social channels.

Follow Sistah’s Place on Social media 
Twitter:  @sistahsplace2
Facebook:  www.facebook.com/sistahsplace2
Website:  www.sistahsplace.com

Cindy's Featured Artist of the Week - Carmen

ABOUT THE ARTIST - 

CARMEN TAYLOR

I’m a Financial Service Professional with New York Life.  I utilize their 171 years of experience, expertise, and financial strength to assist business owners and HR Professionals with their financial planning and employee benefits offerings. I also work with Individuals to reach their Financial Goals for their families.

I specialize in the following areas:
Pension Planning Strategies

Voluntary Employee Benefits (virtually no cost to employer)

Retirement Planning 401K Roll Over

Whole Life Insurance

Term Insurance

Final Expense/Burial Insurance

Key Person Insurance

Buy-Sell Agreements

Critical Illness plans

Disability Insurance (Individual & Group)

Long Term Care Insurance (Individual & Group)

I’m an Ambassador for the $50 Billion Empowerment Plan for the African American Community

I would love to be your Agent.  My clients have the utmost trust in my ability to do what is right for them.

Interested in seeing how I could be of assistance to you or your organization? Please contact me:

Carmen Taylor

Financial Service Professional New York Life Insurance Company

576 Broad hollow Rd Melville NY 11747
Tel  (631) 391-5861

Cell (770) 329-8691

ctaylor1@ft.newyorklife.com

http://www.longisland.nyloffices.com

Cindy's Featured Artist of the Week - Cheryl

ABOUT THE ARTIST -

CHERYL POLOTE-WILLIAMSON

Cheryl is an original Georgia Peach. Cheryl is a Lover of God, two times Best Selling author (“Soul Reborn”), Coach, Kingdompreneur, Mother, Speaker, Consultant, Motivator, Chief Encouragement Officer, and former owner of a Boxing Club Franchise.

Cheryl Polote-Williamson is an action-oriented business woman and second generation entrepreneur possessing exceptional strategic thinking, relationship building, and marketing and communication skills. 

In May 2013 Cheryl published her first book, “Words from the Spirit for the Spirit” which has inspired and encouraged many to live their dreams and is available in multiple languages.

Cheryl has been featured on Dallas Fox 4 News, Eclipse magazine, Rolling Out Magazine, Heaven 97 (970AM), and a blog series telling her story about hurt and betrayal. Cheryl has won numerous awards for entrepreneurialism and maintaining strong client relationships. She continues to write with strength and wisdom as an Amazon Best Selling author for the anthology “Shift ON”, released in February 2016.

Cheryl is a highly sought-after transformational, inspirational, motivational speaker. She is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. and the Links, Inc. 

Cheryl has been married for 23 years to her husband, Russell, has three beautiful children: Russ Jr, Lauren, and Courtney, and one granddaughter, Leah. They are active members of St. John Church unleashed.

Cindy's Featured Artist of the Week - Natasha

ABOUT THE ARTIST - 

My name is Natasha. I am the Owner/CEO of InfiNate Destinations Travel Agency.  I am a lover of people and I enjoy helping others. Travel has always been a passion of mine as well as something that I wanted to do more of.

My travel agency is a full-service travel agency which specializes in providing worldwide travel and entertainment consulting.  I am a family woman and I understand how important it is for families to get away and enjoy recess through travel and entertainment.

I believe that it is essential to provide excellent customer service and to be the consulting professional which all of my clients deserve to have.  I have earned numerous industry certifications of specializations from many of the top travel suppliers and destinations such as Disney, Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Hyatt, Omni, Hilton, American Airlines, Las Vegas Specialist, Cayman Islands Specialist, Destination Wedding and Honeymoon Specialist, France Specialist, LegoLand Specialist, and much more.

I look forward to meeting new people and would love to connect with you.  Visit my website:  www.infinatedestinations.com and "Let Us Take You To Infinite Destinations and Opportunities!"

Cindy's Featured Artist of the Week - Traci

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Traci A. Fonville was born in Bethpage, New York and was raised in Amityville, Long Island. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Mass Media Arts in 1986 from Hampton University, Hampton, Virginia. She is currently the Deputy Commissioner of Human Services for the Town of Babylon and has served her community in this capacity for the past seven years.

In 2011, Traci obtained certification as a Health Coach from the Institute for Integrative Nutrition and in 2013, she became a Registered Yoga Teacher. Traci remains active in yoga by attending trainings, workshops, and classes and is currently looking for space to hold her Very Beginner Yoga Workshops.

Additionally, Traci is a Brand Ambassador for It Works, a company specializing in health and wellness products such as nutritional supplements, weight loss products, and skin care. Traci has been using It Works products since May of this year. She says her skin is the healthiest and brightest it's ever been using It Works cleansing gel, toner, facial peel and day and night creams. To combat stiff joints, Traci uses Relief, which combines glucosamine and chondroitin and other natural ingredients to boost the body’s own formation of joint cartilage. “Our hair skin and nail supplements have helped my hair grow fuller and my nails are stronger! Our probiotics help to keep the good bacteria flourishing in the gut to ward off germs and colds and our signature product, our botanical body slimming wraps help to tone, tighten and firm any area of the body from the neck down. We have such a varied line of healthy products that there’s definitely something for everyone. Your health is your best wealth so drop me a message so we can see what your needs are! I’m very excited about these products and can’t wait to share them with you!”

Traci is a married mother of two, is a member of her church’s dance ministry, and looks forward to bringing yoga, health and wellness programs to her community.

To find out more about her upcoming yoga classes and her It Works products, follow Traci on social media on Instagram and Facebook @iaffirmwellness. You can also log onto her website at www.iaffirmwellness.itworks.com.

A little make up tip by Cindy H. Reed

Okay, I don't know if anyone knows this but I know I didn't so I've decided to share it with you!  ;)

If you never heard of it before - spread the love to your girlfriends!  It'll help us all save money and time!

I don't really know why this popped into my head to try but it did, I tried it and it worked!  I've been doing it ever since.

For all you ladies that use a brush to apply the black eyeliner wings - here's a tip on how you can clean that small brush without buying a product to do just that.  You probably already have this in your home - as most of us do... Nail Polish Remover!

Pour a few drops of nail polish remover into the cap and dip your brush into it and swish it around and in two blinks of an eye, it's clean!!!  I then take the brush and rub the tip over my soap bar - (just to make sure that there's no nail polish remover on it) I then rinse under water before wiping it dry and using it again.

That makeup gets hard, even if you wipe it with a tissue or baby wipe, it just doesn't get all the makeup off so if you want a clean brush every time, that feels like it just came out the package - try that.  :)

I've never cleaned larger brushes with it so don't hold me to that.  But I can say that all my very small makeup brushes get that same nail polish remover treatment every time and I'm one happy girl that I can have clean and smooth and not spend any money on a product that specifically cleans makeup brushes.  Yes!  ;)

If you try it - post your comments, let me know how you like it or not.  ;)

My First Floral Creation by Cindy H. Reed

I love the feature that Facebook has - where you get to see your past posts on the exact day you posted it years ago.  I think that's an awesome feature because who remembers what they've posted years ago?  It's refreshing to be able to go back and see a part of my past.  Some things I reshare, other things - I've grown beyond and don't care to reshare.  :)

I wanted to post this picture of my first floral creation on my blog for you, my readers to see.  My Mother asked me to make her a Christmas floral arrangement for her table and I agreed.  She asked me because she'd seen what I could do with recreating the arrangements she'd get from the stores.

I decided to take on this challenge, something new to me but something I was honored to be asked of. My Mother saw something in me that I wasn't quite aware I had received.  After finishing this creation, high like she asked, in the vase, she and I picked out together - I was proud of what I'd created and I was beyond excited that my Mother loved it.

Over the years, Mom would ask me to make her Christmas table decoration and I had no problem doing so.  I enjoy working with my hands, creating, and I love working with flowers.  I thank God for this gift - my hands are one of my blessings from the Father!  I'll have to go on Facebook and look for the other pictures of floral arrangements I created to share with you guys!

Always - Cindy*

Cindy's Featured Artist of the Week - Emmanuel

The Artist - Emmanuel Barbee

New Urban Author Mr. Emmanuel Barbee is a professional blogger, BlogTalkRadio host, an upcoming social entrepreneur and a new urban author of "The Solution For Black America: Reclaiming, Rebuilding, And Restoring The Urban Ghettos In America" second edition available on Amazon.com This book is an auto-biography about his experience growing up in the inner city of Chicago. He wrote this book for three reasons: one reason is to raise awareness about the genocide which is taking place in our inner cities in America.

Another reason why he wrote his book is to promote his virtual organization the Grass Roots Community Activist Movement. GRCAM will focus is on providing goods and services to the low income African American community and working directly with single black mothers, single black fathers, and low income two parent families within the communities and cities we will serve.

Finally, he wrote his book in order to generate capital/seed money so that he can hire qualified individuals to assist him in the daily operation of his business. He wants to make Chicago a model first before they expand to 10 other cities.

Their mission is to end urban violence, poverty, structural inequality, institutionalized racism, and police brutality within the communities and cities we will serve if given a chance.

You can find Emmanuel's book on Amazon (link below).

http://www.amazon.com/Emmanuel-Barbee/e/B00J6IKRUK

What keeps me balanced, focused, strengthened by Cindy H. Reed

Photo by Devin Hillery

Good morning Family!

Last week I told you I got a part-time job. Yep, walked in the store and got hired right on the spot, after an awesome interview of course!

I've never had a job in retail before and guess what? Not only did I get hired on the spot but I got hired to be an Assistant Manager! Of course, that's what I inquired about.  No time to be the "Manager" so less is more for me.  God is good - Assistant Manager, I'll take that, thank you very much!

Aflac is priority number 1. Building my business there looks very positive! I love working for myself and this affords me to do just that.

Part-time job - priority #2.

Cindy's Simple Pleasures, LLC and Creations by Cindy's Hands - priority #3.

Simply Cindy blog - priority #4.

Promotion of my new book, keeping up with social media, creating new designs for Creations by Cindy's Hands, selling my jewelry in the retail store, continuing to write my second book, and anything else I get my hands on, is priority #5.

All this is "work" and at times, I'm in awe that I have it all under control. You know why that is? Simple answer - in a word - "God". God is in control and therefore He's blessed me to be able to do these things.

Perspective. Knowing what I want and how I want to do things just makes the flow that much easier. Keeping the faith and remaining in constant connection with the Father keeps me in alignment with His will and His purpose for my life.

This morning, I'll walk into that store and learn how to work the register. I've got to know all the ins and outs in order to manage and be successful. All foreign to me but a challenge I fear not. Learning is key to growth and my zest to elevate myself and surround myself with the right people at the right time is motivation to make that happen.

Today, as in every day, I give Honor and Glory to my Heavenly Father. Never taking a step for granted, always praising.... I thank God for this amazing journey! It's not always pebbled on my traveled road... I come across plenty of big ugly rocks but you know - that doesn't stop me. I simply kick them to the side and keep it moving!

Nothing can stop what the Lord has in store! Find your road if you haven't already. Find your gift(s) as we each have one. Walk into your purpose - you only have one life. Each one, reach one... have you done something lately that you know the Father would be pleased with?

If you don't know your purpose or have direction, stand still long enough for God to whisper it to you. Allow the Holy Spirit to move through you to make a difference in not only your life but someone else's.

Make it a great day in the Lord family! One love and peace,

Cindy*

Cindy's Featured Artist of the Week - Lisa

Lisa - Owner of HeavenLy HanDs Creations!                                 

About the Artist

My name is Lisa and crocheting is my passion. As a child, my Mother, Dorothy, taught me this amazing craft, and I never took it as seriously as I have since she passed in 2010. It is near and dear to my heart as if I will always have a piece of her since it was a passion of hers as well. I miss my crocheting partner, but carrying on in her memory keeps her heavenly hands going through mine,,,hence the intentional upper case "D" for Dorothy and "L" for Lisa in HeavenLy HanDs Creations.
http://heavenlyhandscreations.weebly.com/

Visit Lisa's website - fill out her contact form to place your order(s)!  Below are some pictures of her work!  Let's show Lisa our support!

Dishwasher Cleaning Tip....

Did you know this?  I didn't!

My dishwasher was leaving residue on my dishes and it was driving me crazy!  I'd either have to wash those dishes by hand or just re-stack them back in the dishwasher.  Most time, I'd re-stack.  ;)

I keep my food trap clean.  I rinse my dishes before stacking them in the dishwasher.  I use a rinse agent constantly - I couldn't figure out what was wrong and I didn't want the expense of having a repairman come in.

Every now and then, I'd notice that there was what appeared to be - grease around and on the trap. It looked like Spaghetti grease.  I didn't know if that was stopping my washer from performing at its optimal performance level or not.  I'd take it out, clean it but it continued happening every so often but the grit left on my dishes was almost daily!

I wondered if I could use Bleach in my dishwasher.  I decided to Google it and find out if I'd learn anything about that on the internet.  Sure enough, it was out there that I shouldn't.  Bleach will break down parts inside the dishwasher.  I continued researching and I found two tips that I liked from a very reputable site.

I read that before I start the process, I should make sure all the inside parts of my dishwasher are cleaned - free of dirt and debris. Easy enough, it looked spotless to me.  ;)  Then, I read that I should pour one cup of white vinegar in a cup and sit it in the top of the dish rack and let the cycle run.  I wondered how the vinegar would dump itself out into the water but I decided to "trust" the process... or so I told myself.  ;)

I got my measuring cup, filled it with one cup full of vinegar and let her run!  Doubt set in and I wondered if the vinegar was coming out the measuring cup so what did I do?  I opened the dishwasher to check after it was running for some time.  Sure enough, I could smell the vinegar and see that the hot water had splashed inside the measuring up.

I noticed that even though I could smell the vinegar - it was faint and the smell was very pleasant to me.  I immediately thought of lemons.  I didn't really care what it smelled like, I just wanted the process to work but the scent was an added bonus.  ;)

After it ran for what seemed to be - forever (I guess I never pay attention to it when they're dishes in it) - I decided I wanted to dump the vinegar inside the washer and let it finish up that way.  What could it hurt?

Anyway - I found that's a great way to clean out your dishwasher and stop the residue from residing on your dishes after you've spent your hard-earned money to run the washer for all that time.  No one wants to have to waste money by rewashing.

Another method I read about but I

haven't tried yet is - sprinkle some baking soda in the bottom of the dishwasher and let her run!  I'm going to try that the next time I need to clean my dishwasher out. This way, I'll be able to see which one I like doing the best.  ;)

I've shared this information with a few of my family members that never heard of it.  Now I'm sharing with you, my readers!  Share with your friends and family!  You can save money by doing this and save having to have a repairman come out and charge you for something you can fix on your own.

Cindy*

I was featured on NBC4 yesterday. I broke the news of a major scam going on.....

Cindy's NBC4 news story!

Creations by Cindy's Hands

I create necklaces for Men, Women, and Children!  

Creations by Cindy's Hands is all my handmade jewelry. Visit https://creationsbycindyshands.com/

Just Sharing My Thoughts by Cindy H. Reed

Family - I wrote this today at work, sharing with family and friends. I wanted to post on my FB page to share with others. I hope my words touch someone here as it's touched others I've shared with today at work.

God bless... Cindy*

***************************************************
This is a good one for you to consume. This is how I view life in general.

This way of processing helps me to remain in control and not let stresses affect my daily routine. God is in control and he won't let us fall by the wayside but... we must do our part. We must continue to trust in Him and believe that in Him, all things are possible.

I see the calm before the storm so when the storm hits... my faith never waivers... I know I'll be protected & provided for..... Yea thou I walk thru the valley of the shadow of death, I shall fear no evil, for thou art with me. Thy rod and thy staff, they comfort me.....

As I grow older, I find myself reflecting on where I've been, where I am and where I'm going. I've found my purpose. I've also noticed a change in me. God's doing, of course, I am a blessed child of his, in training. I no longer do some of the things I used to do and I feel good about it. I recognize my strengths and my weaknesses. Capitalizing on my strengths, I move forward with an agenda, a self-imposing "to do list". Where I am weak - I work on being strong. I've taken that look in the mirror and I like what I see. Internally I am blessed. I am saved and sanctified. There is nothing about me that is good, that doesn't come from the Lord, and for that, I am eternally grateful and give praise.

Running... something I no longer do. Dropping to my knees, I reached out and was touched. God has signed, sealed and delivered me. My purpose is not perfected, its a work in progress. God is using me for His good. I am trusting Him to guide me.... speak thru me, and use me.

Are you where you need to be? Are you humble enough to accept that God has a calling on your life? Have you asked yourself the question - what does God have for me to do? What's my purpose in life? I believe God has a calling on each and everyone one of us who have been saved by the blood of the lamb. Have you had your little talk with Jesus? Have you told him about your troubles? Proverbs 3:5 - "Trust in the Lord with all thine heart, and lean not unto thine own understanding."

Do you need to take a different course of action? Can you apply for the job? Is your resume in order? Do you have the right qualifications.....

Is your soul saved? Matthew 6:33 - "But seek you first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all things shall be added to you." Simple? Sure. Seek you first... God in all His infinite wisdom is there for you.

Your salvation is there, waiting..... Act 2:38 - "Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized, every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.

The time is NOW. Act, don't react. Don't wait.... tomorrow's not promised. Today. We are living in turbulent times..... wars, famine, disease, animal attacks, earthquakes, gay marriage, children killing children and their parents, bullying, natural disasters are more frequent, the list goes on.... Take a good hard look at what the world is going thru. Look into your future. Search deep within your soul. Ask yourself - am I ready?

I hope you all have a very blessed day. Do some soul searching...... if your soul is lost... seek God, (Matthew 6:33); today!

Much love to you, Cindy*

Just sharing my thoughts..... written 8/29/2011

The Open Door by Cindy H Reed

Our life is comprised with many open doors. Some we walk through, some we close. Let's talk about the spiritual doors that exist in your life. How many of us know how to recognize an open door from God, versus an open door by man? To believers, God blesses us with his infinite love and mercy. We know that man can close doors in our lives but God will always open another.

When you receive a blessing - do you recognize that it is of God? Or do you believe that it's your earthly merits you stand alone on, that got you that far? Everything that is good, comes from God. Every blessing you receive, every opportunity that's presented, every milestone achieved; its a blessing from God.

God filled each one of us with purpose. With purpose come opportunity. With opportunity comes "doors". It's up to us to open each door and step through on faith. With faith anything can be achieved - God says we must first believe. Believe in him, that all things are possible.

My life decisions are based on prayer and faith. I can't have one without the other. I believe that without prayer and faith, one is stuck with life decisions, stuck in a revolving door; going round and round in a circle without direction.

I have stepped out on faith all my life. I know no other way. I've come to stand in front of many doors in my life that I've chosen to open, knowing I'd be walking through with God by my side. My most challenging door was one I'd had in front of me for years now. The one I knew was of God but I wasn't ready to have it open because of my fear of what was on the other side. My faith, where this door was concerned, was tested. How can I love God, believe and spread his message without having faith in what lie on the other side of this door, knowing it was of God? I realized I couldn't have faith "in what lie on the other side" but I needed to renew my faith in God so I could see what was on the other side of that door.

I did just that. I stopped running and I renewed my spirit. I gave myself to God once again, allowing him to let his will be done by accepting my role, whatever that may be, from him. My door was opened and I've walked through with a calm, knowing that God is with me.

Today, I am stepping into my blessings. I have seen a glimpse of the other side, I have heard the voice of the Lord. Opening that door was God's way of letting me grow; grow strong enough in the spirit to prepare me for my next steps, by walking out on faith. Opening that door and telling God I am ready, has taken me to the next stage in my life. Yea tho I walk through the valley..... Yes, God is with me. He is directing my steps, he is blessing my soul.

Do you have a door that needs to be opened? Or are you going through a revolving door with no direction or purpose for your life? Stop, take a look at yourself and analyze your thoughts and actions. Take a step today toward that door and open it by stepping out on faith. God is with you; he will see you through. Open your door today.

God's blessings upon you,

Cindy*

I'm in the Spirit right now by Cindy H. Reed

My strength comes from the Father, for my heavenly Father told me, "Yes, You Can" when I felt I was in my deepest and darkest place ever.

God told me to trust in Him and He'd bring me through. He wanted me to not just believe in Him but to believe in myself. God said, "Yes, You Can!!" When I think my plate is overwhelmingly full - God says - "Yes, You Can!"

I know my journey wouldn't be a successful one without His strength and endearing love for me. I know I wouldn't be in this position to hold on and keep on pushing if it wasn't for His grace and mercy. I've run into many obstacles on my journey - yet being discouraged isn't in my vocabulary. God has and continues to remind me that with everything in front of me - He's got me. God says be encouraged - "Yes, You Can!" "Yes Lord, I can!"

My daily prayers and my belief in the Father keeps me on this aggressive path to not only better myself but to encourage someone else. If I can recognize where all my gifts and talents come from and praise Him for trusting me to use them to glorify Him - you can too!

Step up, step out! Praise God for every challenge you've faced because you've been made into a better person for it. You made it through didn't you? Of course, you did - God said, "Yes, You Can!"

Each one reaches one, pass on God's love story! Help another to see exactly why you're smiling. Share God's word, His will, His way! We're in this together and I'm with you, my Brother, my Sister - let's take this walk together because with God on our side - we can do anything and we will be one in Him.

God says "Yes, You Can!" Thank you, Father, I can and I will!

Peace,

Cindy*

A word from Cindy*

Good morning family! God bless you all!

Today going forward, I'm reinforcing that I will be the best Cindy I can be! God is truly an amazing God and He loves me.

There are so many challenges and obstacles in life but with faith - even as small as a mustard seed, we shall overcome!

I will be successful because God is with me. I will continue to be blessed - because God is for me. I will always walk in His light because God has promised me. I know what's at the end of my road and one day I'll meet the Father and hear those words - "Well done, my good and faithful servant."

If you don't know the Lord - you're missing out on the BEST feeling that you could ever have. You're missing out on true happiness. You may think you know true happiness but w/o HIM, you're only touching the surface, that He's allowed you to touch! Knowing him, being reborn again is truly amazing!

The list of things that God blesses those that follow Him is too long to list. Each one of us that knows Him receives different blessings - to which those that don't know Him, only touch the surface of happiness and peace. To truly be one in Christ - the words, the feelings, the blessings, the peace, the grace, mercy..... it all goes well beyond words. It's the best of the best and you can't get any better!

Make today your mission to reach out and touch someone that you know doesn't know HIM. Show them how good God really is by living your life as a testimony! Live your life in a way that others take notice! Nothing wrong with them wanting what you have as long as what they want is God! There's enough of the Father to go around.

Again, make today your mission to reach out and touch someone you know may be lost or without Christ! There's no greater gift you can give to another than to invite them to receive the spirit of God.

Make it a blessed day in the Lord family! One love, peace.

Cindy*

Check out my new book on Amazon! "Twisted Reality" by Cindy H. Reed

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LA6AP3Y

Sky has everything going for her. A Spelman graduate, a book author with her latest book on Simon & Schuster’s top 10 list. It's her 18-year-old younger sister Eva that is going down the wrong path. Eva's current boyfriend, Omari is having feelings for the new kid in school, Justin. As he tries to figure out his sexuality while dating Eva, he finds himself visiting a dark world. Meanwhile, Eva's having an affair with the married, father of one, the Assistant Pastor of her church.

Which way will Omari turn? Will he step out and go with his feelings toward Justin? Will Eva confide in her sister Sky after she finds out she's pregnant?

Alellena, My Child... by Cindy H. Reed

I wrote this to my daughter when her college - Marymount University wanted to recognize her for her academic achievements. They wanted to include something from me. Written 10/2010. (A-lena)

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Alellena,

Today is another day in my life, that I get to tell you just how proud of you I am. God is good!!!

Where do I begin..... you are my heart and soul, my yesterday and my today. Without you - there'd be no me. You, baby girl - complete me.

When I think about all the accomplishments you've achieved over the years - I am proud. When I think of all the trials and tribulations you've made it through - I am proud. When you call me with excitement over a good grade or just sharing a wise decision you've made - I am proud. Nothing Sweetie brings me more joy than having you, as my child. You represent all that I am and all that I'm not.

As a little girl, you started out in a Magnet program for the Talented and Gifted and you've never stopped pushing yourself to strive and achieve your goals. Your vision has purpose and direction. From one achievement to the next - each has significant meaning to me and makes me one proud Mommy!

What you've achieved at Marymount University is nothing short of your hard work and dedication. Who knew you'd make the Dean's List your first semester, as a first-year student? When you think you might not be able to do something, you surprise me with a smile in your voice saying, "Mommy, guess what?!!!". You have no idea how much that means to me, to hear that you're happy and that you've achieved something you thought, wasn't within your reach.

This baby girl is only the beginning. I know you'll continue to make your Father and I the proud parents we are. Remember when you turned 21 and I sang to you, (doing my best dance moves) - to Stevie Wonder's - "For Once In My Life" song? Let me remind you of some of the lyrics.....

For once in my life, I have someone who needs me

Someone I've needed so long

For once, unafraid, I can go where life leads me

And somehow I know I'll be strong

For once I can touch, what my heart used to dream of

Long before I knew

Someone warm like you

Would make my dreams come true.......

Alellena, my dreams were turned into reality, the day you came into my life. God has truly blessed me with a beautiful daughter, one I will always admire. You Alellena, are my Phenomenal Woman!!!

Keep up the good work kid-o. I will ALWAYS love you!

Love,

Mommy*

The Ten Commandments Writing by Cindy H. Reed

Before I sit down to write, I come up with a title for that writing. Once I have the title, everything else flows around it.

This writing was originally supposed to be submitted to the magazine I write for but after I finished writing it, the Lord spoke to me and told me not to wait on publishing it. To publish it now, so here it is….

The other day, I was listening to the song – “Wait on the Lord” by Fred Hammond. After listening to his CD, I came up with several titles I could write about but I didn’t write any down and I’d later forget them.

I came up with another, wrote it down but I had a funny feeling about it; that it wasn’t the title I should be writing about but I decided to ignore that feeling.

The following day, I was up early, earlier than usual so I decided to lay on the couch while everyone else slept. Unfortunately, sleep was nowhere to be found and my mind started to focus on the Lord. My third thought brought me to my new title for this writing. My spirit was instantly filled with its morning cup of Joe because I was suddenly energized and I knew I had a new title, one that the Father wanted me to write about.

For some reason, God wants me to write about one of His precious gifts to man. His law, His rules, His Commandments. As always, I pray the Father speaks through me; that He helps me to convey His message, whatever that may be, to His audience. I pray that He blesses me to articulate in a way that every reader understands and receives. That being said, let us reflect on one of God’s most treasured gifts to man, “The Ten Commandments”.

The Ten Commandments are found in the Old Testament, the book of Exodus, Chapter 20 and then again in the book of Deuteronomy, Chapter 5.

As you may already know, these commandments were delivered to Moses on the top of Mt. Sinai. How amazing is that; to be chosen by God to receive and deliver such a gift to His people? I can only imagine the humility Moses had to have had.

Here are the laws that God presented to Moses:

Thou shalt have no other gods before me.

Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image or any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth.

Thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them: for I the Lord thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me;

And shewing mercy unto thousands of them that love me and keep my commandments.

Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain; for the Lord will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain.

Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy.

Six days shalt thou labor, and do all thy work:

But the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord thy God: in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates:

For in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day, and hallowed it.

Honor thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee.

Thou shalt not kill.

Thou shalt not commit adultery.

Thou shalt not steal.

Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbor.

Thou shalt not covet thy neighbor’s house, thou shalt not covet thy neighbor’s wife, nor his manservant, nor his maidservant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor anything that is thy neighbor’s.

For the purpose of this writing, I have to believe that the Father wanted me to write about His Commandments to remind every reader of them. Hopefully every eye reading, already knows 1-10 and this writing will serve as a friendly reminder but for those reading them for the first time, I pray you not only see the meaning behind each word but that you consume and digest each word, that it may fill your spirit. I pray you remember Gods laws, practice His laws and need His Word as your body needs essential nutrients to survive.

Without abiding by Gods laws, we aren’t honoring Him the way we should be. Our days are numbered and if you’re a believer, you should recognize this. If you’re not a believer, I challenge you to speak with one. I challenge you to want to feel what we feel and to want to hear the story of life after death.

Now, I’m no biblical scholar; what I am is one of God’s chosen, to write and spread, not only His word but His love. With that, let’s dissect the commandments.

The Lord tells us not to have any Gods before him. God felt the need to say this because many worshipped false gods and God, the Father, is the one and only creator of life. He’s the creator of your life so He wants you to give Him all the praise and honor for that gift – the gift of life. God is a jealous God and He has every right to be. Believer or not, we belong to Him. In the Book of Life, the Father decides when you’ll transition out the womb to when you’ll take your last breath.

I believe that many in today’s times are still worshiping other gods. These people are lost and confused. Of course, they don’t know they are, but they are. These are the people that God has called upon His anointed to reach and show them that the road to righteousness goes “right”, not left.

God doesn’t want us to create an image or likeness that is in Heaven above, or the earth beneath. Now how easy it should be to fulfill this commandment, yet, many still do exactly what God has asked us not to do. This isn’t one of those “Just Do It” commandments – this is a “Just DON’T Do It commandment.

Don’t take the Lord's name in vain. How easy is this? Aren’t we taught as children not to do this? Don’t we all know that saying “Jesus” to end your negative sentence with emphasis is wrong? Jesus is the Son of God and it applies just as if you said something like “Good God” in vain. Saying the Lord's name over and over, outside of prayer and worship – God is telling us not to do.

Let’s think before speaking if this applies to you. Make a conscious effort to change those things about yourself that displeases the Father. That’s not asking a lot of you. Just think about all you ask of Him the next time you use His name in vain. Still waiting on that blessing you’ve been praying over – think to yourself – am I in line with what God asks of me? Check yourself. You could be the holdup of your blessing.

Keep the Sabbath Holy. For me, keeping the Sabbath Holy means more than just working as the commandments state. Respect the Father on all days but especially on this day – the Sabbath.

In the times we currently live in, many treat Sunday as it’s got as much relevance as Monday through Saturday. Do better than your best to recognize that Sunday is the day, the one special day that God asks us to keep Holy.

Think about it, Gods only asking us for one day out of seven and He created all of them. He probably knew most of us couldn’t do more than one day so He made it easy and only asked us to recognize His hard work, His creations of life, etc. on the Sabbath. If God can rest on the seventh day (the Sabbath) – so should you. Gods giving us permission to do absolutely nothing, one out of seven days. That’s really awesome, don’t you think? Thank you, Lord!

Honor your Mother and Father. How hard can this be? For many, I assume it might be pretty difficult and a very tall order but as the Pastor mentioned in his sermon, it doesn’t mean you have to carry that heavy burden(s) – the wrongs your parents may have done to you, around on your shoulders for the rest of your life. You do know that forgiveness is for you? Forgiveness helps you to release and move forward.

Dump that heavy load, forgive them of anything they may have done wrong to you and God will show up and show out and your soul will be freed of that heavyweight. Find your peace by doing what the Father asks of you. You don’t have to be BFF’s, God simply tells us to honor them and by not dishonoring them, you’ll fulfill this commandment.

Don’t kill. This – to me, is my simple sentence. Two words. Again, just don’t do it. Why would anyone even want to? Well, Satan is alive and seeking souls. He’s successful in gathering many because the host he enters isn’t filled with the Holy Spirit.

We’re seeing more and more people being executed by their brother because their soul is lost. When I write posts, most of them include the words – “Each one, Reach one”. We each have a responsibility to do Gods will and try to reach a nonbeliever. Imagine if all of Gods believers had one role to fulfill and that was to reach a nonbeliever and bring him/her – our brother/sister to Christ, imagine what our world would look like today, opposed to what it actually looks like today. Don’t turn on the news – you’ll get a slap of reality, death is everywhere. The lost souls are taking over and our job as believers is to bring another to our Lord. Let Gods Holy Spirit enter into this lost soul, removing Satan’s demon(s), casting it back into the pits of hell. If we would merely do this simple task, we as Gods people, we as Gods children, will see that we can make a difference. It starts with you – every believer is called to duty. Take your role seriously!

Men and women, my brothers and sisters, stop it, just stop it! Stop the cheating, stop the adultery. Stop the lies and deceit. If you’re a child of God, do right by Him and yourself.

Protect your body that houses the Holy Spirit. Maybe if you think of it like – the Holy Spirit is within me and He can see and hear all, think about Him seeing and hearing before you do anything against Gods law. I’d think if you’re a believer and you know the Holy Spirit is within, you’d be embarrassed to know that he knows exactly what you’re up to. Remind yourself before you decided to commit adultery that God told you not to.

Bottom line, just don’t step outside what God brought together. If you’re married – read this – Matthew 19:6. “Wherefore they are no more two, but one flesh. Therefore, what God hath joined together, let no man separate.”

Stealing. Some people think, that’s not me but are you one of those people who “borrow” something from someone and purposely don’t return it, hoping the owner will eventually forget? That’s stealing!

Don’t take what doesn’t belong to you. I recall having an issue within when I’d find myself writing with a pen outside of the company that owned it. Throwing something small like an office pen, etc., into your pocketbook, briefcase, shirt pocket, and walking out the building, knowingly – is stealing. If you unknowingly take it with no intention of keeping it, bring it back but how many of us do that?

Again, my soul made me feel bad whenever I took a pen so I stopped doing it. It's stealing. Be it large or small – it doesn’t belong to you and you’re breaking the eighth commandment.

Bearing false witness. Don’t lie on someone to make yourself feel good or to turn others against the person you’re lying on. God is telling us not to lie, not to bear false witness against our neighbors. Don’t bear false witness (lie) against anyone, neighbor or not.

Let’s learn to have a clean heart. No need in lying about anything. A lie is a lie, is a lie, all day long. Purity, ask God to remove your lying and deceitful ways and to give you a clean heart.

Think about it, when you lie, you have to keep up with them because when you tell one lie, you have to tell another to cover up the first lie and so on. Eventually, you’re going to get caught up and busted, making everything worse. It’s so much easier, to tell the truth – this way, you don’t have to remember what lie you told to this one to match the lie your telling to that one.

Gods last commandment is about covertness. Another “don’t do it”. God doesn’t want you to long for something that someone else has, that you do not. Be it your neighbor’s house, wife, maid, etc. If you are true at heart, faithfully in prayer and in constant communication with the Father, you’ll know that what you want (that another person has) – might not be for you or maybe it’s not your time to have it. Maybe you’re breaking the other nine commandments and you don’t deserve it. Surely, you’ll never get it if you’re going left and allowing the enemy to entice you with covertness with what he wants you to want.

Don’t allow the enemy to take you left. If you’re on the path of righteousness – stay there, remain in prayer and wait on the Lord. Your blessing will come. #Iknow, #truth.

This is the longest article I’ve ever written and I hope and trust that I articulated Gods message in a way that is received and understood by all who’ve read it.

Do right family. Put God first. Remember His word is the only word that matters. Each one, Reach one. Take ownership of your role and responsibilities that you, as a believer have received, to help bring a nonbeliever to Christ. The devil has his team, he’s busy recruiting all day, every day. Have you raised up your children in the church? Have you spoken a word about the Lord this week to anyone – even to another believer? Have you given thought about if you don’t make a difference and join team “Soldiers for the Lord”, that the streets may get your children or other family members?

The streets are active – let’s show up and show out as disciples for the most High and let's show God that we’ve got what it takes to gather other soldiers for His team. Let’s take a stand against all that Satan has going on in the world. Let’s show Satan that we too can be just as busy! Soldiers for the Lord – do right, live right, pray right, stay right, and watch God bless right!

Amen!
Cindy